Topical Bible: Redemption: Typified: Bond-Servant

◄ Redemption: Typified: Bond-Servant ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the concept of redemption is richly illustrated through various typologies, one of which is the bond-servant. This typology provides profound insights into the nature of redemption as understood within the scriptural context.

Old Testament Context

The role of a bond-servant in the Old Testament is primarily outlined in the Mosaic Law. A bond-servant, or a Hebrew slave, was someone who served another for a period of time, often to pay off a debt. The law provided specific guidelines for the treatment and eventual release of these servants. In Exodus 21:2, it is stated, "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything" . This release in the seventh year symbolizes the concept of redemption, where the servant is liberated from bondage without any cost to himself.

The bond-servant typology is further enriched by the provision for a servant who, out of love for his master, chooses to remain in service permanently. Exodus 21:5-6 describes this scenario: "But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children; I do not want to go free,’ then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life" . This voluntary servitude reflects a deeper spiritual truth about willing submission and devotion, which is central to the concept of redemption.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the typology of the bond-servant finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:7 states, "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness" . Christ, though divine, took on the form of a servant, embodying the ultimate act of humility and obedience. His life and sacrificial death serve as the means of redemption for humanity, liberating believers from the bondage of sin.

The Apostle Paul frequently refers to himself as a "servant of Christ Jesus" (Romans 1:1), indicating his complete devotion and submission to the will of God. This reflects the bond-servant's choice to serve out of love and commitment, mirroring the believer's response to the redemptive work of Christ.

Spiritual Implications

The typology of the bond-servant in the context of redemption highlights several spiritual truths. Firstly, it underscores the idea of liberation from bondage, a central theme in the doctrine of redemption. Just as the bond-servant is set free after a period of service, so are believers set free from the bondage of sin through the redemptive work of Christ.

Secondly, the voluntary servitude of the bond-servant who chooses to remain with his master out of love illustrates the believer's response to God's grace. Redemption is not merely a release from sin but also an invitation to a life of willing service and devotion to God.

Lastly, the bond-servant typology emphasizes the cost of redemption. While the servant goes free without payment, the master bears the cost. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in Christ, who pays the ultimate price for humanity's redemption through His death on the cross.

In summary, the bond-servant serves as a powerful typology of redemption, illustrating themes of liberation, voluntary devotion, and the cost of freedom, all of which find their fulfillment in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 25:47-54
And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by you, and your brother that dwells by him wax poor, and sell himself to the stranger or sojourner by you, or to the stock of the stranger's family:
Torrey's Topical Textbook